Friday, December 14, 2012

Welcoming Families From Around the World

The family I chose is from Brazil. After researching families in Brazil I found out some interesting facts.

Facts and Culturally Responsive:

1. The language of Brazilian people is Portuguese. I will learn some key words to help the children adjust to my child care center.

2. The common religion of Brazil is Roman Catholic. I would talk to the parent’s about their traditions and find out their family values. I would explain that our center respects all families. The culture of our classroom is reflective of all children and families. I would address who they asked me to on educational related topics (father, mother, or both). In many Brazilian families there is a hierarchy and I would want to know where they stand not to offend their traditional values.

3. The country is diverse in culture. The majority of the population comes from mixed races. Most people come from a mix of European, African and Indigenous ancestry (kwintessential, 2012). I will post pictures that are familiar to the family. Invite them to share photos as well so the children feel represented in the classroom.

4. There is a class order in Brazil, which is based on economic status and color of skin. I would take interest in how they feel about “class” order. I would let them know that we strive for equity in our center and everyone will have the same opportunities to explore, learn, and create as individuals. I would also explain our curriculum on cultural acceptance.

5. Brazilian families are often large and extended family is important. I would meet with the family and have an interpreter available if needed. I would ask what their goals for their children are. I would ask what their experiences with childcare are and how I can help their children feel safe and welcomed.

The ways I hope these preparations benefit both myself and the family is taking away the unknown. I believe getting to know each other’s expectations takes the fear out of joining our early learning center. I want to respect the family as individuals and their values as well. I also want them to understand our mission at my center.

Josie Zbaeren

I chose Brazil for this assignment because my sister in law, her husband, and their daughter are moving to Brazil at the first of the year for her work. They will live and work in Brazil. Chase their daughter will attend 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade in Brazil. They have started to learn Portuguese and they are preparing for an exciting adventure!



 http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/brazil-country-profile.html

5 comments:

  1. Josie,

    I love the information you posted about Brazil. Sounds interesting!! I also agree that learning about families truly helps put everyone at ease.

    Great job!
    Cortnee :)

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    1. I am glad I came back to your page Josie! My comment was all messed up. I don't know why, but the middle of the paragraph was gone. So, I will try to re-create what I said. I used to work with a veterinarian who grew up in Brazil. He said a lot of good things about it. It sounded like a good place to grow up. I hope your sister's children have a good experience also!

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  3. Hello Josie,

    I had picked Brazil also, because I thought about the up- coming Olympics. I think it is great that you have family that will be moving to Brazil for a little while, what a great opportunity. I didn’t think about asking for the goals for their children. Thank you for reminding me of that. Wish your family well for me.

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  4. Brazil does sound so exciting. It sounds like a great opportunity for your family. I think it is extremely important to involve families at all levels in their child's education. Thank you for sharing this interesting data.

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